Jongjin Park Crowned Winner of Loewe Craft Prize 2026
In a dazzling ceremony held in Singapore's National Gallery, South Korean artist and ceramicist Jongjin Park was celebrated as the recipient of the Loewe Craft Prize 2026. His groundbreaking ceramic piece, a slumped seat-like form, captivated the judges with its sculptural artistry and its capacity to broaden perceptions of what ceramic art can achieve. This recognition underscores the vital role of contemporary craft in the global art landscape and Loewe's ongoing dedication to nurturing exceptional talent.
Park's winning creation, titled 'Strata of Illusion', utilizes an innovative slip-casting technique that mimics natural sedimentation. The rectilinear seat is crafted from folded paper coated with porcelain slip, which, after drying, is fired at high temperatures. This process incinerates the paper, leaving behind a singular ceramic form that retains the subtle creases, compressions, and shifts from the original paper structure. The resulting surface presents a rich tapestry of textures and colors, showcasing a unique interplay between fragility and permanence.
The competition drew an impressive 5,100 entries from around the world, narrowed down to 30 finalists by an expert panel in Madrid. Among the special mentions were Baba Tree Master Weavers, collaborating with Álvaro Catalán de Ocón, for their 'Fra Fra Tapestry #2'—a monumental, communally woven elephant-grass textile depicting aerial views of Gurunsi adobe housing in Ghana. Italian jewelry designer Graziano Visintin was also recognized for his geometric necklaces, crafted using ancient Egyptian melting and molding techniques involving minuscule metal sheets and sulphur, a method documented by a 12th-century Benedictine monk. The exhibition in Singapore, featuring these 30 remarkable works, serves as a testament to the diverse and evolving nature of global craftsmanship.
The judging panel, which included esteemed figures such as design critic Deyan Sudjic, designer Patricia Urquiola, architect Frida Escobedo, and Met Museum curator Abraham Thomas, unanimously selected Park's work. This consensus was particularly notable given the diverse perspectives of the judges, who considered aspects ranging from construction methods to cultural significance. Loewe's creative directors, Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough, new to the jury this year, expressed their fascination with Park's technique, highlighting the unexpected fusion of porcelain and paper.
Loewe's deep-rooted connection to craft dates back to its founding in 1846 as a specialized leather workshop. The Loewe Craft Prize, established in 2016 under the vision of former creative director Jonathan Anderson, continues this legacy by championing exceptional craft worldwide. Sheila Loewe, the great-great-granddaughter of founder Enrique Loewe Roessberg, emphasizes the brand's genuine passion for craft, distinguishing it from superficial marketing trends. She acknowledges the growing interest in craft within the luxury sector but stresses that Loewe's involvement is driven by a commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, not merely commercial gain.
Many artists in the exhibition voiced concerns about the potential disappearance of traditional crafts and the lack of opportunities for future generations. Jobe Burns, a UK-based artist whose 'Laying Vessel' sculpture highlights the decline of industrial metal-forming skills, and Nigerian artist Fadekemi Ogunsanya, who employs the endangered adire eleko resist dyeing method, both emphasize the urgent need for documentation, knowledge sharing, and artistic advancement to safeguard these invaluable traditions. Conversely, artists like Soohyun Chou integrate modern technologies like 3D printing into their craft, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to preserving and evolving artisanal practices. The Loewe Craft Prize acts as a vital platform, bringing these diverse narratives to a global audience and fostering a renewed appreciation for the intricate beauty and profound cultural significance of craft.
The annual Loewe Craft Prize continues to illuminate the profound artistry and dedication inherent in global craftsmanship. This year's event in Singapore not only celebrated the innovative spirit of artists like Jongjin Park but also underscored the critical importance of preserving traditional techniques while embracing new forms of expression. The exhibition showcases a rich tapestry of creativity, reminding us that craft is not merely about objects but about stories, heritage, and the enduring human desire to create beauty with skill and intention.